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### **For the Creamy Mac and Cheese**
1. **Macaroni (Elbow Macaroni or Cavatappi)** – The base of the dish, which holds the creamy cheese sauce perfectly.
2. **Butter** – Used to create the roux for the cheese sauce.
3. **Flour** – To make the roux, which thickens the sauce.
4. **Milk** – Full-fat milk adds creaminess to the sauce.
5. **Heavy Cream** – Adds richness and smoothness to the mac and cheese sauce.
6. **Cheese** – A combination of sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella, and a little bit of Parmesan gives the mac and cheese a perfect balance of creaminess and flavor.
7. **Mustard Powder** – A small amount of mustard powder adds a tangy depth to the sauce.
8. **Salt and Pepper** – Essential to season the mac and cheese to perfection.
## **Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make the Ultimate Steak & Shrimp Feast with Creamy Mac & Cheese**
Now that we’ve gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to assemble this indulgent feast. Each component requires attention to detail, but the effort is absolutely worth it.
### **Step 1: Preparing the Steak**
1. **Bring the Steak to Room Temperature**: Before cooking, remove the steak from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This ensures an even cook.
2. **Season the Steak**: Season both sides of the steak generously with salt and pepper. If you like, you can also add some garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
3. **Heat the Pan**: Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive oil and let it heat up until shimmering.
4. **Sear the Steak**: Place the steak in the skillet and sear it for about 3-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. The steak should develop a golden-brown crust.
5. **Add Butter and Herbs**: Once the steak is seared, reduce the heat to medium. Add a couple of tablespoons of butter, crushed garlic cloves, and fresh herbs to the pan. Spoon the melted butter over the steak for flavor, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until your desired doneness is achieved.
6. **Rest the Steak**: Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
### **Step 2: Cooking the Shrimp**
1. **Prepare the Shrimp**: If you’re using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them first by running them under cold water. Peel and devein the shrimp, removing the shells and tails.
2. **Season the Shrimp**: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with salt, pepper, paprika, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
3. **Sauté the Shrimp**: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Once hot, add the shrimp and sauté for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
### **Step 3: Making the Creamy Mac and Cheese**
1. **Cook the Pasta**: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni (or your preferred pasta) and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. **Make the Roux**: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for about 2 minutes to form a roux. This thickens the sauce.
3. **Add Milk and Cream**: Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue cooking for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
4. **Add the Cheese**: Stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. **Season the Sauce**: Add salt, pepper, and mustard powder to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. **Combine the Pasta and Sauce**: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated. Remove from heat.
### **Step 4: Plating and Serving the Feast**
Now that all the components are prepared, it’s time to bring them together and create your Ultimate Steak & Shrimp Feast with Creamy Mac & Cheese.
– **Plate the Steak**: Slice the steak into thick strips, if desired, and arrange them on a large platter or individual plates.
– **Add the Shrimp**: Place the sautéed shrimp next to the steak, arranging them artistically for a visually appealing dish.
– **Serve the Mac and Cheese**: Spoon a generous portion of the creamy mac and cheese onto the plate, alongside the steak and shrimp.
– **Garnish and Serve**: For an added touch, garnish the steak with fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. A sprinkle of chopped parsley over the shrimp will also add a burst of color.
## **Tips for the Ultimate Dining Experience**
– **Customize the Steak**: If you prefer a different cut of steak, feel free to use ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon—each brings something unique to the table.
– **Spice It Up**: Add some heat to the shrimp by including cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes in the seasoning.
– **Make It Extra Cheesy**: Add more cheese to the mac and cheese for an even richer flavor. Consider adding some cream cheese for extra creaminess.
– **Add a Salad**: Serve this feast with a light green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
## **Conclusion: A Feast to Remember**
The **Ultimate Steak & Shrimp Feast with Creamy Mac & Cheese** is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The perfect balance of savory steak, succulent shrimp, and rich mac and cheese makes for an indulgent, memorable dinner that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this dish will exceed your expectations and leave you craving more. Enjoy the decadence of a steakhouse experience in the comfort of your own home, and savor every bite of this luxurious feast!
